ENGIE Vianeo, the electric vehicle (EV) charging subsidiary of ENGIE Group, has formed a strategic partnership with BICS, a global communications provider, to enhance its charging stations through the Internet of Things (IoT). This collaboration aims to establish real-time connectivity, facilitating remote maintenance and improved decision-making for ENGIE’s growing network of charging stations across Europe. The implementation of BICS’ IoT connectivity solution, known as ‘SIM for Things’, will transform ENGIE Vianeo’s infrastructure into a network of interconnected devices, enabling efficient operations and user-friendly experiences. With the rise of electric vehicles—nearly 3.2 million new registrations in 2023, a 20% increase from the previous year—there is a pressing need for more accessible charging stations. In response to this demand and the EU’s recent legislation to expand charging infrastructure, ENGIE Vianeo has set ambitious goals for the number of charging points it aims to deploy across France and Belgium by 2025.
To address the challenges of managing a widespread network of charging stations, ENGIE Vianeo plans to increase its presence significantly, with aspirations to install 12,000 charge points in France and more than 5,000 in Belgium. The partnership with BICS will provide the necessary technology and connectivity to ensure that these stations are consistently operational and well-maintained. By leveraging BICS’ platform, ENGIE Vianeo will benefit from real-time data, allowing users to access live information about charger availability and vehicle charging status via a mobile app. This innovation is pivotal in enhancing the overall customer experience, which is crucial for transitioning to a more sustainable mobility model. The initial phase of this connected charging initiative will focus on Belgium, with plans to expand across Western Europe, including France, Italy, and Spain, ultimately deploying around 50,000 IoT-connected devices. This partnership underscores the commitment to fostering a more efficient and carbon-neutral transportation infrastructure while simplifying connectivity for smart chargers throughout Europe.
